The Shade of My Own Tree
Sheila Williams
One World/Ballantine
Published: August 2003
ISBN: 0345465172
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Reviewed by Andrea

This story centers around a middle-aged woman who is leaving a relationship after years, too many in my mind, of abuse.   She is learning  to love and appreciate herself once again and she is  also coming to the realization that even though one may physically "leave" the relationship, it is never over.  A person must learn to live with the dependency that kept them in it and face the fears associated with leaving once they have the courage to move on. 

The main characters are pretty well developed and will give readers a sense of who they are, even though some basic information that is important to the book is not revealed until late in the story. The eclectic nature of the River people add lots of character to the storyline. Some of the minor characters, though around for a "minute" or so it seems, enhances the story. The author uses a writing style that flows smoothly with only an occasional disruption in the flow.  I have not read many books on domestic abuse and the most difficult part for me to understand is "why a person stays so long or why one leaves only to return." But after reading, The Shade of My Own Tree, I did gain a bit more insight. Another theme which is abundant throughout the story is how different people are brought together due to life events and how strong relationships/friendships evolve. Overall, this a fast paced enlightening read.

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